Salons at De Haar Castle: Dream Big

This fall, we’ll be opening our doors for the second edition of Salons Castle de Haar: two exclusive dinner evenings where inspiring speakers, visionaries, and leading thinkers come together to discuss big questions.

Anything is possible—if you dare to dream big. But how do we turn big dreams into reality?? This question, entirely in the spirit of Etienne van Zuylen van Nijevelt, is the focus of these evenings.

About the Salons

The Salons of Kasteel de Haar were established to carry on the traditions of Baron Etienne van Zuylen van Nijevelt and Baroness Hélène de Rothschild . More than a century ago, they organized gatherings centered on conversation, debate, and inspiration. Etienne was an unparalleled host who had fully mastered the art of hospitality. His international guests—comprising friends, family, and high-ranking associates—could always count on an experience of unparalleled grandeur.

Now, more than 130 years later, Etienne’s spirit lives on in Salons Kasteel de Haar, a place where new ideas are born, perspectives converge, and grand dreams take center stage.

The evenings feature a variety of special speakers.

On Saturday, November 7, the question“When is innovation progress?” will take center stage. Etienne was a forward-thinking visionary who equipped Kasteel de Haar with innovations unheard of at the time, such as electricity, central heating, and hot and cold running water. His passion for automobiles also contributed to the rise of a motorized Europe. His legacy invites us to ask: when does technological innovation truly lead to progress? We’ll discuss this with entrepreneur Jacqueline van den Ende, visionary Won Yip, and physicist Diederik Jekel.

Saturday, November 14, will focus on the question:“Can art contribute to our manners?” For Etienne, Kasteel de Haar was more than just an impressive structure. Architecture, interior design, exterior design, and symbolism came together in a neo-Gothic vision, designed to welcome people and bring them together. With his sense of hospitality and prestige, he created an environment where international connections, friendships, and social networks could flourish. During this evening, director Daria Bukvić, writer Splinter Chabot, and philosopher Stine Jensen will explore how art influences the way we view one another and what role it can play in how we live together.

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